Kostis Georgiou’s ‘Phylax’ Vandalized in Athens

In southern Athens, protesters clad in black clothing tore down Greek artist Kostis Georgiou’s “Phylax,” a red sculpture shaped like an angel. They acted out by breaking its wings in a fresh act of violence against an artwork critics have likened to Satan.

The 8-metre high sculpture called “Phylax,” the Greek word for “guardian,” was displayed in early December in the coastal suburb of Palaio Faliro. Protests have ranged from throwing white paint to spitting at it, and its protesters have included some residents, religious conservatives, and supporters of far right political groups. Last week, a group of 10-15 hooded persons tied the sculpture to the back of a truck and drove away with it late at night.

The mayor, Dionysis Hatzidakis, has filed a lawsuit and said, “So, if we don’t like something we destroy it…for political purposes?” If the sculpture can be repaired it will be reinstalled. Georgiou noted that “Phylax” was transferred to a safe place and that he hopes “the evil shall not prevail.” He further added, “It should remain down on the ground as a memorial of the irrational rationale,” noted Reuters.